PEDIATRIC DENTAL TREATMENTS UNDER GENERAL ANESTHESIA: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

PEDIATRIC DENTAL TREATMENTS UNDER GENERAL ANESTHESIA: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY Narmin Mammadli Bezmialem Vakıf University, Istanbul, Türkiye Objectives: This retrospective study aims to evaluate the distribution of dental procedures performed on pediatric patients under general anesthesia, considering tooth type, treatment classification, and ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) classification. Methods: The records of 315 pediatric patients who underwent dental treatment under general anesthesia at Bezmialem Vakıf University (2023–2024) were retrospectively analyzed. Data included patient demographics, ASA classification (I–V), dental procedures, and tooth numbers. Inclusion criteria covered patients receiving stainless steel crowns, extractions, pulpal amputations, posterior/anterior composite restorations, fissure sealants, and root canal treatments. Results: A total of 3,403 dental treatments were performed on 315 pediatric patients (mean age: 4.91 ± 1.94 years, median age: 5 years, range: 1-12 years). Of these, 93% were performed on primary teeth and 7% on permanent teeth. The most commonly performed procedures were as follows: Stainless steel crown restorations (31%), tooth extractions (26%), pulpal amputation treatments (19%), posterior composite restorations (10%), anterior composite restorations (9%), fissure sealants (3%), and root canal treatments (1%). The most frequently treated tooth was tooth number 74, on which the most commonly performed procedure was a stainless steel crown restoration. According to the ASA classification, 83% of the patients were classified as ASA I, 11% ASA II, 5% ASA III, and 0.3% ASA V. Conclusions: Oral health in children is directly linked to their quality of life. Given that young children often exhibit severe anxiety and lack of cooperation, making in-office dental procedures challenging, general anesthesia may be recommended for patients with a high number of carious lesions. Our study provides valuable insights into the distribution of pediatric dental treatments performed under general anesthesia, contributing to clinical practice and treatment planning. Keywords: General anesthesia, pediatric dentistry, dental treatments.